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About Maria - FlowingWatersArt

I'm a self-taught mixed media artist and have been creating art and a positive atmosphere in my life for as long as I can remember. I live in sunny South Florida, which serves as my inspiration for my use of bright fun colors with a whimsical flair. My goal is to inspire and empower you to find your inner happiness through creativity, as I have in my life. This website includes different tips and techniques that will hopefully inspire your inner muse to create. Welcome and join me on a wonderful journey in creating art!

Digital Detox: Embrace Serenity in a Connected World

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Photo by Adem Percem on Pexels.com

In a world that’s always “on,” taking a moment to unplug can feel… surprisingly hard. Notifications, emails, social media, endless scrolling—it all becomes part of our daily rhythm. But every now and then, stepping away from the noise can bring a kind of clarity and calm that’s truly refreshing.

Lately, I’ve been reminded of just how beautiful it is to disconnect—even for a little while.

There’s something incredibly grounding about putting the phone down, closing the laptop, and simply being present. Whether it’s sitting quietly with a cup of coffee, flipping through a favorite book, or spending time creating art without distractions, those unplugged moments feel fuller somehow—more real, more intentional.

If you’ve been feeling a bit overwhelmed or scattered, a gentle digital detox might be just what you need. Here are a few simple ways to ease into it:

Start Small
You don’t have to disappear for a week to feel the benefits. Try setting aside 30 minutes to an hour each day without screens. Even a short break can reset your mind.

Create Tech-Free Zones
Designate certain spaces—like your bedroom or creative area—as no-phone zones. This helps protect your rest and your creativity.

Replace, Don’t Just Remove
Instead of just cutting out screen time, fill that space with something nourishing. Journaling, painting, walking, or even just sitting quietly can be incredibly restorative.

Be Intentional with Your Time Online
When you do go back to your devices, try to use them with purpose. Mindless scrolling can leave us feeling drained, while meaningful connection or inspiration can actually uplift us.

Reconnect with What Matters
Unplugging creates space—space to think, feel, create, and reconnect with yourself. It’s in those quiet moments that inspiration often finds its way back in.

As someone who finds so much joy in creating, I’ve noticed that some of my most meaningful ideas come when I step away from the digital world and allow myself to just be. There’s a softness, a flow, and a sense of calm that naturally returns.

So today, maybe take a small step. Put the phone down. Step outside. Pick up a paintbrush. Or simply breathe in a quiet moment.

You might be surprised at the beauty you find in unplugging.

Thank you so much for stopping by and spending a little time here with me. Wishing you a peaceful, creative, and wonderful day ✨

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Chasing Light: When an Abstract Becomes an Ocean Sunset

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There are moments in the creative process that feel less like painting… and more like discovering. This piece was one of those moments.

I set out with the simple intention of creating a landscape abstract—nothing too defined, just a gentle exploration of color and movement. But somewhere along the way, something shifted. The soft pinks, warm yellows, and dreamy blues began to blend in a way that felt familiar… and before I even realized it, an ocean sunset started to emerge. 🌅

It wasn’t planned. It wasn’t forced. It just… unfolded.

I began this painting with brushes, carefully laying down color and feeling out the composition. But pretty quickly, I felt the urge to let go of that control. My fingers took over, blending the sky, softening transitions, and adding that fluid, organic movement that only happens when you truly connect with the paint. There’s something incredibly freeing about that—no tools, just instinct.

The sky became this soft, glowing wash of color—almost like cotton candy drifting across the horizon—while the ocean below grounded the piece with movement and depth. And those tiny birds? They seemed to appear right when they were needed, adding just a hint of life and story.

What I love most about this painting is how it reminds me that creativity doesn’t always need a plan. Sometimes, the most meaningful pieces come from letting go, trusting your instincts, and allowing the art to reveal itself.

This one felt a little magical from start to finish. ✨

Have you ever created something that surprised you along the way?

Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing this creative moment with me. Wishing you a wonderful, and inspiring day!

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What Would You Do With Your Life If Money Didn’t Matter?

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It’s a question that stops us in our tracks:

What would I do if money didn’t matter?

Most of us spend so much time chasing stability, paying bills, or meeting expectations that we rarely pause to imagine a life completely free from financial worry. But even imagining it can spark insight, creativity, and self-discovery.

When money isn’t the focus, what rises to the top?

  • Passion and curiosity — painting, writing, music, exploring, creating.
  • Connection — spending time with family, friends, or communities that inspire us.
  • Contribution — helping others, volunteering, sharing knowledge, making a difference.
  • Growth — learning new skills, traveling, or simply exploring life without fear.

This question isn’t about escaping responsibility. It’s about uncovering what truly matters, what fills your life with meaning beyond paychecks and deadlines.

Even small glimpses of this “freedom” can transform how we live now. Perhaps it’s dedicating a few hours a week to a passion project, a mindful walk, or a creative practice. Perhaps it’s noticing what sparks joy in your life, even while you meet your responsibilities.

The truth is, money shapes options, but it doesn’t define purpose. Pause and imagine your life without financial limits — what would you create, explore, or share? Even the smallest step toward that vision — a few hours on a passion project, a new hobby, or simply noticing what brings you joy — is a move toward the life you truly want. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment; start living pieces of it today.


Take a moment to write it down: If money didn’t matter, what would you do? Even one small step this week toward that vision is a piece of the life you’re meant to live. Share your thoughts in the comments — I’d love to hear!

Thank you for visiting today. May your day be filled with small joys and meaningful moments.

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Exploring Abstract Art: Ocean Blues vs. Playful Pinks

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There’s something so freeing about creating just to explore—and these two practice abstract sets were exactly that. No pressure, just color and curiosity leading the way.

Both are made up of four mini abstracts using the same mix of watercolors, acrylics, pens, pencils, and bits of collage—yet they each took on a completely different mood.

Cool, Calm Ocean Blues

The first set leans into soft blues and greens, inspired by the gentle rhythm of the ocean. The colors flow naturally, with subtle texture and small pops of green, yellow and light that feel peaceful and soothing.

Warm, Playful Pinks

The second set is full of warmth and energy, with vibrant pinks, touches of orange, and hints of gold. Layered marks, playful movement, and a bit of shimmer give these pieces a lively, expressive feel.

Same Process, Different Personalities

I love how the same materials can lead to such different results. One calm and flowing… the other bright and full of energy.

It’s a beautiful reminder that creativity doesn’t have to be perfect—just showing up and playing can lead to something unexpected and joyful.

Which one speaks to you more—the calming blues or the playful pinks?

Thank you so much for stopping by. Wishing you a happy, colorful, and wonderful day ✨

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Embrace Spring: Simple Rituals for Renewal

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Spring often brings a quiet invitation to refresh—not just our homes, but how we move through our days.

A seasonal reset doesn’t have to be anything big or overwhelming. Sometimes it’s found in small, intentional moments that help us feel a little lighter and more grounded.

It might look like:

• Opening a window and letting fresh air move through your space
• Bringing in something living—like fresh flowers or a simple plant—to add a sense of life and renewal
• Clearing and refreshing one small area, like a countertop or nightstand, to create a calm, clutter-free space
• Lighting a candle or choosing a scent that feels fresh and uplifting
• Taking a few quiet minutes in the morning to pause, breathe, and begin your day with intention
• Writing down what you’re ready to release and what you want to welcome in this season
• Spending more time outside—whether it’s a walk, sitting in the sun, or simply noticing what’s blooming around you
• Adding a small touch of color or something that feels new, to bring a sense of freshness into your environment

Creative rituals don’t have to be elaborate. Often, it’s these small, mindful shifts that help us reconnect—with ourselves, our space, and the present moment.

Spring reminds us that renewal can be gentle. It can unfold quietly, in simple ways that feel natural and true to you.

So as the season begins to shift, consider this: what’s one small thing you can do to create a sense of calm or renewal in your day?

Wishing you a peaceful, inspiring, and beautifully refreshed day. Thank you for stopping by. 💛✨

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Explore Silent Radiance and Gentle Currents: New Art Debuts

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Two new pieces have just arrived in my Etsy Shop—meet Silent Radiance and Gentle Currents! 💛

These abstracts are part of a series inspired by childhood memories of growing up on a lake. That sense of quiet water, shifting light, and gentle movement continues to influence my work today. I find so much joy in the spontaneity of watercolor—watching pigments blend, soften, and settle into their own rhythm on the page.

Across each painting, a horizon of light draws the eye, bringing warmth and balance to the composition.

Silent Radiance carries layers of serene greens and cool blues, crossed by that luminous band of gold—evoking the meeting of land, water, and sky in a calm, reflective moment. Gentle Currents flows with a similar palette, its movement feeling a bit more fluid and meandering, as if the water itself is quietly in motion.

While each painting tells its own story, together they create a shared sense of place—different moments within the same calm, unfolding landscape.

If you’re looking to bring a touch of calm and inspiration into your space, you can find Silent Radiance and Gentle Currents in my Etsy Shop. I hope they bring a little light and a sense of wonder into your day!

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Life Lessons: What I Would Tell My Younger Self

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If you could sit down with your younger self for just a moment… what would you say?

Not to change the past. Just to share what life has quietly taught you.

Here’s what I would say.

Don’t sweat the small stuff.
Bad days happen. Learn from them and move on. Tomorrow brings another sunrise and another chance.

Forgive — especially yourself.
Holding onto guilt or resentment only keeps you stuck. Give yourself grace. Growth comes from learning, not perfection.

Be yourself.
Stop comparing. You were never meant to live someone else’s life. Your uniqueness is your strength.

Don’t argue with someone who isn’t listening.
As Brendon Burchard wisely noted, when someone starts by saying, “No, you don’t understand,” they’ve already decided not to hear you. Protect your peace instead of proving your point.

Never burn bridges.
You never know when paths will cross again. Leave situations with dignity whenever possible.

What you give comes back.
Kindness attracts kindness. Positivity creates more positivity. The energy you put into the world has a way of returning.

And my favorite rule:
If you wouldn’t feel proud telling Mom and Dad what you’re doing… you probably shouldn’t be doing it.

At the end of each day, I ask myself one simple question:

“Was I the best person God sent me here to be today?”

Some days the answer is yes. Some days it’s no. But every day is another opportunity to try again. What would you tell your younger self?

Thank you so much for stopping by today. I truly appreciate you being here, and I hope you have a happy, wonderful, and inspiring day ahead.

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Explore Golden Stillness and Quiet Horizons: New Art Debuts

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I shared these paintings with you recently on my blog, and now they’ve officially made their debut in my Etsy Shop — meet Golden Stillness and Quiet Horizons! 💛

These abstracts were inspired by my childhood growing up on a lake, where we swam almost every day. I love the spontaneity of watercolors, letting the pigments move, blend, and find their own rhythm. For a little pop of light, I added a golden band stretching across each painting like a quiet horizon catching the sun, bringing warmth and balance to the composition.

Golden Stillness invites a moment of pause, with deep, grounding blues and dreamy greens drifting above. Quiet Horizons has a brighter, more playful energy, with lively greens in motion and a golden glow that feels like sunlight dancing on water.

Though each painting tells its own story, together they feel like two glimpses of the same serene landscape — a peaceful world hidden inside the paint.

If you’d like to bring a little calm and inspiration into your own space, you can see Golden Stillness and Quiet Horizons in my Etsy Shop. I hope these pieces spark joy and a sense of wonder in your day!

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Awaken Your Creativity This Spring

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Spring has a way of waking the world — and us — from our winter slumber. The air feels lighter, the sunlight warmer, and life seems to hum with possibility. There’s something about this season that invites creativity to bloom alongside the first flowers.

Even small changes in the natural world can spark big ideas. A budding branch, the scent of fresh grass, or the sound of rain on new leaves can nudge us to explore, experiment, and create. Spring reminds us that growth is both visible and quiet, and that every day holds the potential for something new.

This season is a gentle invitation to:

  • Start a new project you’ve been thinking about
  • Revisit old ideas with fresh eyes
  • Experiment without pressure or expectation
  • Allow yourself to be inspired by the world around you

Creative energy is not just about output — it’s about noticing, feeling, and responding to the life around you. Spring’s vitality encourages us to shed the old, step into new rhythms, and embrace curiosity with openness and joy.

Even a few moments spent observing, sketching, journaling, or simply walking outside can recharge your creative spirit. By syncing with the season’s energy, we allow our own ideas and passions to blossom.


Take a moment today to notice something new in your surroundings. Let it inspire you — a page in your journal, a sketch, or a small creative experiment. Share your spring-inspired creation or insight in the comments — I’d love to see what blooms for you.

Thanks so much for stopping by! I hope this fresh season fills your days with inspiration, joy, and creative energy — may your day be absolutely wonderful.

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Embracing Watercolor: The Dance of Color and Texture

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Sometimes a painting begins with a plan…
and sometimes it begins with color.

These two abstract watercolors began with flowing blues and vibrant greens, letting the pigments move and blend naturally across the paper. I added a glowing band of golden yellow, slightly off center, letting it find its own place within the composition.

The effect feels like a quiet horizon catching the light — a small, intentional touch that brings warmth and balance to each piece.

There’s something calming about that moment in the process, when the colors begin to suggest a place — almost like discovering a landscape hidden inside the paint.

Painting One (pictured left)

This piece feels soft and reflective to me.

• Deep blues gather toward the bottom like water catching the light
• A warm golden band glows across the painting like a quiet horizon
• Above it, drifting greens and blues create a misty, dreamlike sky

It reminds me of those peaceful moments when everything slows down and the world feels still.

Painting Two (pictured right)

This painting has a slightly different energy.

• Rich greens move more freely across the page
• The glowing yellow horizon feels brighter and more defined
• Soft textures below create the feeling of light shimmering across water

Even though these paintings were created separately, they feel connected — like two glimpses of the same peaceful place at different moments in time.

That’s one of the things I love about watercolor. The paint often leads the way, revealing scenes and moods you didn’t expect when you first picked up the brush.

Now I’m curious…

What do you see when you look at these paintings?
A quiet lake? Rolling hills? A distant shoreline?

I hope you enjoyed sharing this creative moment with me. Thank you so much for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderful, magical day!

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